Sprint to Launch Entertainment App for Android Smartphones

Sprint is launching a branded music and video application Tuesday for smartphones running Google 's Android operating system as the carrier further aims to distinguish its wireless service from rivals.

The app, to be called Entertain Me, will offer video services such as live and recorded television and movies, as well as music services from partners Spotify and Shazam. Users will be able to browse and purchase content on the phone.

The launch comes as carriers are looking for features to attract customers.

“The way to differentiate moving forward is in the experience and services that carriers can offer,” said Fared Adib, senior vice president of product development at Sprint, in an interview Tuesday at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Sprint’s software is part of the company’s Sprint Zone, which it said is used by 12 million subscribers a month. The application replaces the preloaded applications that are often on the device and consolidates multiple services after customers “pushed back” on having too many individual apps on their device, Mr. Adib said.